WASHINGTON (Dec. 15, 2011) -- Under Secretary of the Army Joseph W. Westphal hosted the University of Maryland's Fall Commissioning Ceremony today in the Pentagon's Patriot Room.
Three University of Maryland Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets were commissioned into the United States Army as second lieutenants. Their commissioning signifies the completion of a rigorous four-year program.
The officers, 2nd Lt. Curtis M. Long, 2nd Lt. Ross Scarcia, and 2nd Lt. Marcus A. Hemsley, were commissioned before a gathering of friends, ROTC program cadre and guests from Headquarters Department of the Army.
"Always strive to provide leadership that inspires your Soldiers to perform," said Westphal, as he offered advice about leadership and service in an ever-changing Army.
"You are now a part of a corps of leaders that expects you to continue to build upon what you have learned in ROTC and constantly grow in your leadership role," Westphal said.
Upon presenting the cadets to Westphal for commissioning, University of Maryland's Professor of Military Science, Lt. Col. Samuel R. Cook, said "All of these men have met the rigid requirements to become U.S. Army officers and I endorse each of their potential to serve, and make a difference in our Army."
These officers are scheduled to graduate from the University of Maryland at 7 p.m., Dec. 21.
They will then begin their careers as Army officers -- for Long and Scarcia on active duty, and Hemsley in the Army Reserve.
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